---
title: "A Private Function"
year: 1984
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/a-private-function-1984"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 57565
imdb_id: "tt0089838"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 96
community_rating: 6.4
vote_count: 68
content_rating: "R"
---

# A Private Function (1984) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/a-private-function-1984

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

A Private Function is a 1984 British comedy film directed by Malcolm Mowbray. The production, which stars Michael Palin and Maggie Smith, was filmed primarily in the West Yorkshire locations of Ilkley and Ben Rhydding. Set during the summer of 1947, the story takes place as Britain prepares to celebrate the royal wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Phillip. Amidst strict food-rationing laws, three local men—Dr. Charles Swaby, accountant Henry Allardyce, and solicitor Frank Lockwood—conspire to fatten a black-market pig for the upcoming occasion. The plot centers on Gilbert Chilvers, a meek man who is encouraged by his wife to steal the animal. As the couple attempts to hide the swine, they must avoid detection by a food inspector named Morris Wormold. The film, which has a runtime of one hour and thirty-six minutes, explores the themes of prestige and clandestine activity during a period of scarcity. It was released in the United States on March 1, 1985, and is classified as a comedy.

## The Hook & The Verdict

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | Criterion Channel | None | None |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | None | None | Amazon Video |
| **Canada (CA)** | Criterion Channel | None | None |
| **Australia (AU)** | None | SBS On Demand | Amazon Video |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Malcolm Mowbray
- **Networks / Studios**: Handmade Films

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Michael Palin** as *Gilbert Chilvers*
- **Maggie Smith** as *Joyce Chilvers*
- **Denholm Elliott** as *Dr. Swaby*
- **Richard Griffiths** as *Allardyce*
- **Tony Haygarth** as *Sutcliff*
- **John Normington** as *Lockwood*
- **Bill Paterson** as *Wormold*
- **Liz Smith** as *Mother*
- **Alison Steadman** as *Mrs. Allardyce*
- **Jim Carter** as *Inspector Noble*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Where can I stream or watch A Private Function online?
A Private Function is currently available to watch or stream on Criterion Channel, Amazon Video. Check our live regional availability tracker above for latest direct streaming, subscription, rent, or purchase options.

### Q: Is A Private Function worth watching?
A Private Function holds a community rating of 6.4/10 based on 68 verified viewer ratings. It offers engaging Comedy for fans of the genre.

### Q: How long is the movie A Private Function and when was it released?
A Private Function is a feature film with a runtime of 96 minutes. It was released in 1984. Release status: Released.

### Q: Who directed A Private Function?
A Private Function was directed by Malcolm Mowbray.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [A Private Function — The Movie Database (TMDB)](https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/57565)
- [A Private Function - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Private_Function)
- [A Private Function (1984) - Full cast & crew - IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089838/fullcredits/)
- [A Private Function (1984) - Cast & Crew - The Movie Database ...](https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/57565-a-private-function/cast)
- [A Private Function 보기](https://www.sbs.com.au/)

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*